YOUR GUIDE TO DISHWASHERS:

The majority of built-in residential dishwashers are either 18” or 24”. It’s important to accurately measure the space before committing to a new dishwasher.

Style and performance will probably top most wishlists, but condo and apartment owners may also want to pay close attention to a dishwasher’s noise level.

A small kitchen might not require a small dishwasher. Instead, what you might want to consider is the space between rooms. For example, if your kitchen is close to your family room, the noise level of your dishwasher could dictate whether you can hear your TV at certain volumes.

For kitchens in close proximity to rooms where you'll be entertaining or relaxing, you could consider quieter models that are under 50 dBA. You’ll have plenty of options to choose from.

The noise level of a dishwasher is calculated in decibel levels (dBA). The main thing to know is that the higher the decibel level, the noisier the dishwasher.

A 1 dBA difference isn’t noticeable to most people. It typically takes a difference of 3 dBA before the human ear perceives a difference. A 40 dBA and below rating may be practically silent while in operation, while ratings of 50 and higher could produce a higher noise level similar to a normal conversation.

Dishwasher interiors are made of either plastic, stainless steel or a combination of these two materials.

Plastic tubs can be less expensive although they are considered the noisier option.

Stainless Steel tubs may be better suited to resisting stains, are considered to be quieter and can handle higher drying temperatures.

Hybrid interiors combine plastic and stainless steel.

Maytag does not carry dishwasher models with plastic or Hybrid tubs.

Built-in dishwashers are defined by being permanently installed into the structure of an existing kitchen.

Portable dishwashers are for kitchens that may not have adequate space for a built-in or countertop model. A portable dishwasher can be placed in or removed from a kitchen whenever needed.

Countertop dishwashers are designed to fit on top of a variety of counter spaces. Some may consider them to be a good option for condos or small kitchens.

*Maytag does not carry portable or countertop dishwashers*

Heavy & Targeted Wash Zones: Dishwashers with a heavy wash zone feature a spray zone to aggressively target and clean heavily soiled dishes and awkwardly shaped items.

Water Coverage: Features can include flexible wash arms and bottle wash sprays. This may provide better wash coverage.

Filtered-based systems: These systems generally minimize the sound output and are better equipped to optimize water and energy conservation.

Cycle options: Certain models may offer a customizable option so that washing is performed based on your wash load. This can potentially cater to more delicate items like china and crystal in an effort to preserve them.

Commonly, people use dishwashers to clean plates, cups and cutlery. Sometimes, though, they might need to wash items like wine glasses, fine china, chopsticks or platters.

Some dishwashers are built with features to improve loading capacity and versatility:

Adjustable/Flexible Racks: These racks can be moved into different positions inside the dishwasher. This allows owners to customize a wash, including the ability to load large or oddly shaped items.

Third Level Racking: This rack can be used to wash items like cutlery, spatulas and chopsticks.

Silverware Baskets: This is a dedicated compartment for flatware.

Think about how much flexibility and capacity you might need. Then you can decide if you want removable racks and/or fold down tines to accommodate pots and pans of varying sizes and/or stemware holders for wine glasses and champagne flutes.

Tub Material: Stainless steel can retain heat from the wash cycle to help ensure more efficient drying.

Fan Assisted Dry: This feature utilizes a fan to accelerate drying performance by replacing humid air with room temperature air. Premium dishwashers typically have this feature.

Heated Dry: This helps ensure your dishes are “cabinet dry” after the wash cycle. Please note that this feature’s typical default setting is “on”. This is a manual option, giving owners the choice of turning it off.